Decoding the Narrative Structure of "On the Face of It" from CBSE Guides's blog

Susan Hill's play, "On the Face of It," captivates audiences with its compelling narrative structure, which seamlessly weaves together themes of identity, empathy, and resilience. In this article, we'll dissect the narrative structure of "On the Face of It," exploring its key components and how they contribute to the overall impact of the play.

1. Exposition: Setting the Stage

   • The exposition of "On the Face of It" introduces readers to the main characters and their respective circumstances.
   • We meet Mr. Lamb, a reclusive man with facial scars, and Derry, a curious young boy who befriends him.
   • Through dialogue and interactions, the exposition establishes the central conflict of the play: the societal prejudices faced by Mr. Lamb due to his appearance.

2. Rising Action: Tension and Conflict

   • The rising action of "On the Face of It" unfolds as Mr. Lamb and Derry form an unlikely friendship despite the societal barriers that divide them.
   • Tension mounts as Mrs. Parry, a concerned neighbor, expresses her reservations about Derry's friendship with Mr. Lamb, highlighting the prejudice and fear that exists within the community.
   • As the bond between Mr. Lamb and Derry deepens, the rising action culminates in a series of pivotal moments that challenge the characters' perceptions and beliefs.

3. Climax: Moment of Revelation

   • The climax of "On the Face of It" occurs when Mr. Lamb reveals the truth behind his facial scars to Derry, opening up about the accident that changed his life forever.
   • This moment of revelation serves as a turning point in the narrative, as Derry gains a deeper understanding of Mr. Lamb's humanity and the importance of empathy and acceptance.
   • The climax resonates with themes of forgiveness, compassion, and the power of connection, leaving a lasting impact on both characters and readers alike.

4. Falling Action: Resolution and Reflection

   • In the falling action of "On the Face of It," the characters grapple with the aftermath of the climactic revelation.
   • Derry comes to terms with his own prejudices and learns valuable lessons about empathy and understanding from his friendship with Mr. Lamb.
   • Mrs. Parry undergoes a transformation of her own, as she confronts her fears and biases and recognizes the positive impact that Mr. Lamb has had on Derry's life.

5. Resolution: Closure and Hope

   • The resolution of "On the Face of It" brings closure to the central conflict and provides a sense of hope for the future.
   • Mr. Lamb and Derry's friendship endures, despite the challenges they face, demonstrating the resilience of the human spirit.
   • The play ends on a hopeful note, with the characters looking towards the future with optimism and renewed understanding.

Conclusion The narrative structure of "On the Face of It" is a masterful blend of exposition, rising action, climax, falling action, and resolution, which collectively contribute to the emotional depth and resonance of the play. Through its compelling storytelling and rich character development, "On the Face of It" offers readers a thought-provoking exploration of themes such as identity, empathy, and resilience, leaving a lasting impression on audiences of all ages.